The name of the family is derived from the Greek words akantha and oura, which loosely translate to "thorn" and "tail", respectively. This refers to the distinguishing characteristic of the family, the "… Meer weergeven

Acanthuridae contains the following extant subfamilies and genera:
• Subfamily Nasinae Fowler & Bean, 1929
• Subfamily Acanthurinae Bonaparte, 1835
Ther… Meer weergeven

The distinctive characteristic of the family is that they have scalpel-like modified scales, one or more on either side of the peduncle of the tail. The spines are dangerously sharp and may seriously injure anyone who care… Meer weergeven

Acanthurids are the only known hosts of the bacteria of the genus Epulopiscium bacteria. These bacteria affect the digestion of surgeonfishes enabling them to digest the algae in their diet. Meer weergeven

Tangs are very sensitive to disease in the home aquarium. However, if the tang is fed enough algae and the aquarium is properly maintained disease should not be a problem. It is usually necessary to … Meer weergeven